Magic Johnson to debut as college basketball on-air analyst for Michigan State-Indiana game

Magic Johnson talks with Michigan State coach Tom Izzo after an NCAA tournament game in 2009.AP Photo

Michigan State legend Magic Johnson will team up with Dick Vitale and Mike Tirico on ESPN's telecast of the Michigan State-Indiana game at Breslin Center on Feb. 19, marking Johnson's first appearance as an on-air college basketball analyst.

“From the time I was a high school basketball player in Michigan I was
captivated by Coach Vitale’s spirit and passion,” Johnson said in a statement. “I’ve
been fortunate to have developed a wonderful relationship with him -- one
which is bonded by our common love of basketball. I have the utmost
admiration and respect for Dickie V as a person, a basketball genius and
a commentator and I can’t wait to call this game with him and Mike
Tirico.”

Vitale recruited Johnson while he coached at Detroit, but the point guard went on to make his mark in East Lansing and helped lead the Spartans to a national championship in 1979 -- the same year Vitale joined ESPN.

Johnson since 2010 has served as an NBA studio analyst for ABC and ESPN.

“I remember him as a kid so well," Vitale said in a statement. "He was a basketball junkie, playing
the game for hour after hour on the playgrounds. He became ‘Magic’ from
his work ethic. I have always said if there was one player I wish I
could’ve coached in my life it would be Earvin Magic Johnson. I am
thrilled to be able to work with him and Mike Tirico. Although, I might
have to remind him a few times that Indiana will be playing as well.”